Pass the State-mandated ACT WorkKeys Assessment. Applicants must pass the test before they can be registered to attend a basic police academy. If you have already completed this test, please include a copy of your test certificate with your application or resume. This three-hour basic aptitude test is administered at one of several testing centers around the state. Our closest testing site is at Calhoun Community College. For more information and scheduling, please call 256-306-2522. The test costs $45 and your results are good for five years.

Complete a board interview.

Academy & Field Training Program

New officers are required to graduate from a 13-week police academy and successfully complete a field training program. Recruits typically ride with a Field Training Officer (FTO) for 1-3 months while waiting for the next academy session. Candidates must graduate from the 13-week basic academy and successfully complete the field training program to continue employment with this department.

Northeast Alabama Police Academy

Police academy recruits must be able to complete the entire physical fitness test described above during the first week of the academy. Failure to complete any portion of the physical fitness test may result in dismissal from the academy. Athens Police Department typically sends new officers to the Northeast Alabama Police Academy in Anniston, Alabama. For information, visit the academy website.

Application Process

Applications for police officer are accepted throughout the year, regardless of openings. For a current list of employment opportunities throughout the City of Athens and instructions regarding the application process, visit our Job Openings page.